Smart Women Talking

Barbara Zuleger and Polly Meyer
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Women are leaders - Whether leading a company, a community, a campaign, a household, or all of the above, women are navigating things nobody's no one is talking about. Smart Women Talking is where these conversations happen out loud. This is your invitation to the table.  The second-guessing. The decisions that keep you up at night. The rules you never agreed to but somehow keep following anyway.  We’re done with surface-level. Smart Women Talking brings you the topics women are genuinely wrestling with and guests who speak to them honestly, directly, and without the performance. Every episode is a real conversation with a real perspective and at least one idea you can take and run with.  No fluff. No performance. Just smart women talking about what actually matters.

Episodes

  1. Jun 19

    The Real Challenges Women Face in Politics - and How Relationships and Timing Make All the Difference

    In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Senator Julia Coleman, the youngest woman ever elected to the Minnesota State Senate. Julia shares how she navigated pregnancy, motherhood, and ambitious leadership with authenticity, resilience, and unwavering faith in herself. Her story is a powerful reminder that motherhood does not disqualify you from leading - it fuels your fire to make an impact. Key insights include: Building confidence through small wins and proving your capabilities over time Turning high-pressure campaigns and challenging remarks into fuel for success Practical strategies for relationship-building while managing young children in demanding careers The significance of allies and mentors who break traditional rules to support women in politics The critical need for systemic changes, such as inclusive workplace policies for mothers and dedicated childcare spaces Julia’s perspective on stepping into new rooms that challenge her growth and bravery Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Julia Coleman’s trailblazing journey 02:10 - Campaigns and resilience built through pregnancy and motherhood 03:58 - Developing confidence as a muscle through incremental wins 04:26 - Decision to run for office amid imperfect timing 05:22 - Motivation behind running for state senate amidst personal challenges 06:25 - Dynamics and culture in the Senate when Julia first arrived 07:34 - Responding to criticism and demonstrating resilience in public service 08:32 - Turning negative remarks into moments of wit and confidence 09:57 - Mentorship and support from women who paved the way 11:39 - Gaining respect and perceived authority through consistent presence and leadership 12:38 - Leading with purpose during long debates and remote voting during COVID 13:21 - Unwritten rules and relationship-building as essential elements of leadership 14:11 - Strategies for balancing motherhood and career, scheduling relationship time intentionally 16:09 - Importance of making space for working mothers in legislative environments 17:55 - Role of fun in networking and leadership for Julia 18:53 - Influence of trailblazing women in her career 20:16 - Changes in legislative culture supporting women and young mothers 21:21 - Overcoming the challenge of being seen as a leader and a mother simultaneously 22:48 - Lessons on setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care 23:52 - Message motherhood sends about leadership and representation 25:20 - Julia’s influence on future generations of women in politics 26:43 - Systemic reforms still needed, like childcare and breaks during long debates 29:22 - Advice for women hesitating to step into influential rooms 30:55 - Next challenge: what’s beyond the current room, and the courage to grow 34:10 - Julia’s ongoing journey of bravery, growth, and expanding her influence Resources & Links: Julia Coleman - Minnesota State Senator Brene Brown - The Power of Vulnerability Brendon Burchard - High Performance Habits Connect with Julia Coleman: LinkedIn Twitter This conversation is a testament to the transformative power of authentic leadership, resilience, and breaking barriers with grace. Share this episode with someone who needs to see what's possible when you lead with heart and purpose.

  2. Jun 11

    The Confidence Gap Is A Lie

    Unlock the secret behind the confidence divide that’s holding countless women back - not from a lack of ability, but from years of silent messaging planted early in life. What if confidence isn’t about faking it or mustering endless bravado? What if it’s actually about recognizing and rewiring the conditioning that makes us second-guess ourselves every step of the way? In this episode of Smart Women Talking, Polly Meyer and Barbara Zuleger cut through the noise to reveal a radical truth: the confidence gap is less about personality and more about deeply ingrained messages we’ve absorbed - messages that tell us to take up less space, play small, and hide our brilliance. Discover how this conditioning shapes women’s leadership, decision-making, and the way they show up in every room, whether in meetings or boardrooms. You’ll learn: Why telling women to "just be more confident" is the worst advice - and what to do instead The subtle signs of self-doubt that high-performing women often hide, and how to recognize them in yourself and others How societal messages from childhood and modeling other women reinforce limiting beliefs - and how to break free from them The difference between genuine humility and shrinking, and why standing in your worth elevates everyone around you Practical frameworks like the Evidence Collection method that turn vague self-doubt into clear, solvable questions The power of small, intentional moves - like changing a wardrobe item or asking better questions - to rewire your confidence muscle This episode is a call to action for women ready to reclaim their space, their voice, and their leadership. If you’ve ever felt like your doubts are holding you hostage, or wondered how some women seem effortlessly confident - this is your roadmap to rewriting that story. Because when women step into their full power, they don’t just transform themselves - they ignite a ripple effect of possibility for everyone around them. Whether you're leading a team, growing a business, or stepping into a new role, understanding and addressing the confidence gap is the key to unlocking your next level. Confidence isn’t about never doubting, it’s about learning how to trust yourself enough to keep moving forward, one small step at a time. Are you ready to speak differently, lead boldly, and take up space unapologetically? Then hit play - this conversation might just shift everything.

  3. Jun 4

    S2 E2 | The Hidden Likability Tax

    The Hidden Likability Tax Most women are conditioned to be likable at all costs - but what if that pressure is secretly costing you respect, authority, and your personal power? Dr. Kyra Messick-O'Quinn reveals the hidden toll of the "likability tax" and how it sabotages your influence and confidence in the workplace - and in life. This isn't about sacrificing kindness; it's about reclaiming your strength and authenticity without fear of pushback.  In this eye-opening conversation, you'll discover how striving to be universally liked leads to emotional over-calibration, over-explaining, and self-doubt - all behaviors that drain your energy and diminish your impact. Dr. Kyra shares powerful frameworks like the river metaphor for personal power and practical strategies to identify and shift subconscious behaviors - including over-apologizing, excessive self-editing, and avoiding conflict - that keep you from showing up fully.  We break down how high-performing women unintentionally pay the likability tax, what it costs in trust and opportunity, and how small shifts can unlock a new level of authority. Whether you're navigating leadership, striving for influence, or simply tired of playing small, this episode will give you clear tools to speak with more confidence, set boundaries, and lead with presence - without losing your kindness.  If you’re ready to step into your power and stop sacrificing respect for approval, this episode is essential listening. The transformation begins when you see these invisible patterns - and decide to change them. Perfect for women who want to lead authentically and influence deeply - without the hidden costs of trying to be everyone’s favorite.  Dr. Kyra Messick-O'Quinn is a clinical psychologist and holistic health expert dedicated to helping sensitive, high-achieving women reclaim their strength. Her work blends ancient wisdom with modern psychology, empowering women to lead with courage and clarity.  Get ready to transform your mindset, your communication, and your life. Your authority is waiting.

  4. May 27

    Designing Your Success

    Most driven women master the pursuit of success - but many overlook the vital step of truly owning and experiencing it. This episode uncovers the surprising gap between chasing achievement and genuinely savoring it, revealing why success often feels fleeting and unfulfilling. If you've ever reached a milestone only to wonder, “Is this it?” you're not alone - and you're about to learn how to change that. Imagine celebrating your wins not as bragging but as essential building blocks of real fulfillment. Polly and Barbara explode the myth that success has to come with sacrifice or exhaustion, offering a fresh lens on how to create achievements that feel as good as they look. From overcoming emotional drain to managing social comparison, they unpack practical tools that help you acknowledge small wins, pause intentionally, and communicate your accomplishments confidently. You’ll discover how to harness journaling and intentional reflection to mute imposter syndrome, why celebrating small victories fuels long-term motivation, and how the power of community can transform your relationship with success. They share eye-opening insights on social media’s role in comparison and how to reframe it into inspiration instead of frustration. Plus, learn how to identify your most impactful success areas using the Wheel of Life, and why setting boundaries and taking strategic pauses are game-changers for sustainable momentum. This episode is perfect for women who are already accomplished but feel a quiet pressure to do more, faster. If you're ready to build a success that feels as meaningful as it looks - and unlock the resilience and confidence to enjoy the journey - these strategies are your blueprint. Don't wait to celebrate yourself - your worth isn’t just in the chase; it’s in the moment you own what you’ve achieved. Ready to redefine what success means for you and learn the simple yet powerful steps to truly experience it? Hit play now - your most fulfilling wins are waiting.

  5. 03/22/2025

    Powerful Growth Through Reflection

    Smart Women Talking

  6. 10/09/2024

    S1 E6 EMBRACING YOUR CONFIDENT FUTURE SELF: A TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEY

    Description: Join us in this inspiring episode of "Smart Women Talking," as our special guest, Teresa Thomas, dives deep into the empowering concept of embodying your future self. In today's discussion, we unravel the critical role of networking tailored to future ambitions rather than past experiences. We confront the familiar challenges that often hold us back from fully stepping into our potential, discussing strategies to transcend past limitations and the usual traps of our comfort zones. Teresa brings invaluable insights on how to sustain commitment on your growth journey and strategies to dismantle the nagging doubts of imposter syndrome. We explore how playful exploration can significantly enhance personal and professional growth, and why maintaining a robust network of supportive relationships is crucial for our development. Most importantly, we discuss the power of self-awareness and the mind-body connection in shaping our perceptions and actions. Teresa shares transformative feedback from her "future self" sessions, providing us with practical takeaways that encourage us to always align our current actions with the future we aspire to create. Key Takeaways: Embrace Your Future Self: Acting as your future self can dramatically impact your personal growth. Network with Intent: Focus your networking on where you want to go, not where you've been. Break Free from Comfort: Challenge your comfort zones to expand your horizons. Cultivate Playfulness: Use playfulness as a tool to discover more about yourself and foster growth. Overcome Imposter Syndrome: Remember your past successes as evidence against your doubts. Seek Support: Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. Tune in to discover how you can harness these insights to nurture your development and sculpt a future that truly reflects who you want to become. Don't just dream about your future self—start living as her today! Link to Teresa Thomas Win/Win Networking: Your Guidebook for Confident and Effective Connections and 50 Fun Things: Enjoy the Small Things Win Win Connects

  7. 08/08/2024

    S1 E4 Future Self Series Part 1 : Building Your Vision MP3

    In this episode of Smart Women Talking, join us as we dive into the transformative journey of becoming your future self, in the first installment of our three-part series. We start by unpacking the art of excavating who you want to become, pinpointing core values that guide your path forward. Together, we explore how tools like vision boards and affirmations aren't just hopeful strategies but powerful methods backed by science to help manifest the life you envision. We delve into the role of the reticular activating system (RAS), a key neural network in your brain that helps you recognize and seize opportunities that align with your aspirations. Understanding how to engage this system can be a game changer in your personal and professional growth. As we wrap up, we discuss the potent combination of visualization and the 'Be x Do = Have' formula, a framework that empowers you to align your actions with your deepest beliefs and goals. Tune in to discover how to effectively shape your future, one vision at a time, and turn your dreams into reality. This is just the beginning—stay tuned for more insights in the next two parts of this series! Attachment: Core Values Assessment

  8. 08/08/2024

    S1 E5 Future Self Series Part 2: Evolving from Present to Future Self MP3

    Join us in the second episode of our series on "Becoming Your Future Self" on "Smart Women Talking," where we delve deeper into the transformative journey of becoming the person you aspire to be. In this insightful discussion, we uncover the profound impact of monitoring your thoughts and understanding how they shape your destiny. We explore the critical role emotions play, often anchoring us to our past, and share strategies to free ourselves from these old patterns that hold us back. You'll discover how in the throes of personal transformation, chaos can emerge as a surprising ally. This episode demystifies how embracing discomfort and the inherent chaos of change can be pivotal in driving significant personal growth. We emphasize the incredible power of visualization and mantras, not just as tools but as essential practices that support the creation of a vivid and compelling vision for your future. As we wrap up, we leave you with a potent reminder: the journey of becoming your future self isn't just about achieving external milestones; it's profoundly about who you become in the process. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to steer your thoughts, harness your emotions, and embrace the transformative chaos to sculpt a future that resonates deeply with who you truly want to be.

  9. 07/09/2024

    S1 E3: Mastering the Balancing Act: Work, Family, and You

    In this enlightening episode of "Smart Women Talking," join us as we delve into the everyday challenges of juggling work, family, and self-care in today’s nonstop world. We tackle the hefty societal expectations that often place women at the forefront as primary caregivers, all while managing their professional lives, and we discuss how this dual burden can significantly elevate stress levels. Throughout our conversation, we share effective strategies to help manage these pressures. We talk about the importance of creating structured routines that enhance productivity without compromising personal time, fostering open communication within the family, and planning transitions carefully to reduce stress. But our discussion doesn't just focus on coping mechanisms; we also reveal our personal self-care rituals that keep us centered—whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or engaging in activities that soothe the soul. Join us as we explore the reality of striving for harmony in a chaotic world, and discover actionable tips that can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

  10. 07/02/2024

    S1 E2: Finding Joy and Why Its So Important

    Today's Smart Women Talking conversation explores the importance of joy and happiness in our lives and how to intentionally cultivate more of it. Barbara and Polly share their personal experiences and lessons from a retreat in Costa Rica that helped them shift their perspectives on joy and fun. You will discover the power of micro acts of joy and the impact it can have on emotional well-being. Learn how to prioritize being intentional about finding joy in everyday life and creating space for it. We encourage listeners to share what brings you joy on social media using the hashtag #SWT.  We love having you be part of the conversation because your wisdom lifts others. If you are interested in connecting with Teresa Thomas of 50 Fun Things and learning about her programs, you can click the link to be taken directly to her website. Til next week, Polly and Barbara

  11. Season 1 Trailer

    S1, E1: The Premiere of Smart Women Talking

    Welcome to the Season 1 of "Smart Women Talking," the podcast where no topic is too hot to handle, and no wisdom too sacred to share. Join hosts Polly Meyer and Barbara Zuleger as they tear down the facades and get real about living, working, and thriving in today's whirlwind world. From climbing the corporate ladder to juggling diapers and deadlines—everything's on the table. Tune in for unfiltered conversations with women —each bringing a trunk full of rich, multi-generational wisdom. We’re talking the nitty-gritty of professional life, the chaos and charm of family, the often overlooked joys that buzz beneath our breakneck days, and yes, even those secret sauces that make women so darn effective at what they do. "Smart Women Talking" isn’t just about swapping stories—it’s about forging connections, listening earnestly, and evolving. As seasoned coaches, we don’t shy away from the tough talks that forge steel spines and soft hearts. We’re here to tackle the pervasive sense of isolation that haunts even the most connected among us, knitting together a community, thread by thoughtful thread. Each episode arms you with actionable insights and tools for personal and professional triumph. And gentlemen, don’t wander off—there’s gold in here for you too. Dive into the dialogue—leave comments, lob questions, share your sparks. Your insights fuel our fires and will find their spotlight in future episodes. Subscribe to "Smart Women Talking" now. It’s where women’s wisdom doesn’t just whisper; it speaks boldly and unapologetically. Catch you on the airwaves!"

Trailer

About

Women are leaders - Whether leading a company, a community, a campaign, a household, or all of the above, women are navigating things nobody's no one is talking about. Smart Women Talking is where these conversations happen out loud. This is your invitation to the table.  The second-guessing. The decisions that keep you up at night. The rules you never agreed to but somehow keep following anyway.  We’re done with surface-level. Smart Women Talking brings you the topics women are genuinely wrestling with and guests who speak to them honestly, directly, and without the performance. Every episode is a real conversation with a real perspective and at least one idea you can take and run with.  No fluff. No performance. Just smart women talking about what actually matters.

Information

  • Creator
    Barbara Zuleger and Polly Meyer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Smart Women Talking